Riot Games is shaking up the VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) for 2027, introducing a new qualification system and increased financial support for non-partner teams. The goal is to make the competition more open and to reward teams for strong performances all season long.
Triple Elimination Kickoff Tournaments Return
Kickoff tournaments in the Americas, EMEA, and Pacific will each have 12 teams: 8 partner teams and 4 from open qualifiers. The top three in each region move straight to the Masters. Partner teams start in Kickoff, but they’ll need to keep up strong results to stay in the running for later Cups.
Performance-Based Progression
Advancement in VCT 2027 is all about performance. If a partner team slips up, they’ll have to battle through Open Playoffs to keep their spot. Teams knocked out early will need to return to the Open Qualifiers. This setup means every match really matters.
Expanded Regional Opportunities
VCT Pacific is adding dedicated competitions for Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, giving new teams in these fast-growing regions a clearer path to the top. South Asia and Oceania will have a shot through the Pacific Wild Card route.
VCT China’s Unique Model Continues
China will keep its visitor team system, along with partner and open qualifier teams. Kickoff events there will include 8 partner teams, 2 visitor teams, and 2 open qualifier teams, all starting out in the first tournaments.
Roster Continuity Incentives
Open and creator-led teams can keep their progress if they stick with at least three of their five starting players. This helps new organizations stay stable and build a lasting presence.
Guaranteed Financial Support for Non-Partner Teams
For the first time, non-partner teams will get set payouts based on how far they go:
- $100,000 USD for qualifying for Kickoff or a Cup
- $200,000 USD for qualifying for the Masters
- $400,000 USD for qualifying for Champions
These payouts come on top of prize pools, travel support, and other perks, making it easier for all teams to stay in the game.
Additional Support for Game Changers Teams
Non-partner teams that make it to the Game Changers Championship will receive a $100,000 bonus, providing even more support for new and diverse talent.
A Vision for an Open, Competitive Future
Leo Faria, Global Head of VALORANT Esports at Riot Games, emphasized the core philosophy behind VCT 2027: “VCT 2027 is built around a simple belief: the best teams should earn their place every step of the way and every match matters. We wanted to create a system that rewards performance, opens more opportunities for teams around the world, and makes every match feel meaningful. By creating more paths into top-level competition and providing meaningful financial support for teams that qualify, we’re building a more open, engaging, and competitive future for VALORANT Esports. One where any team can rise, every event matters, and fans have more reasons to follow the journey from local competition all the way to Champions.”
Looking Ahead
Riot Games’ new structure aims to open up the VCT ecosystem, giving more teams a fair shot and making things more sustainable across the board. We’ll get more details on slot allocation and regional formats before VALORANT Champions.
Stay tuned for more updates as VALORANT Esports continues to evolve through 2027 and beyond.
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